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It is with great sadness that we write to tell you of the passing of Robert Bayita, the Director of Operations for Amigos in Uganda.
Robert died on Saturday 7th January, having been admitted into hospital in Kampala earlier in the week.
He was diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome*, an acute viral infection affecting the nervous system. Robert was transferred to one of the best hospitals in Uganda and drugs were being flown over from Nairobi when Robert’s condition worsened and he passed away.
This is really tragic news, and we especially want to remember Robert’s wife, Doreen, and his two young children, Israel (2 years) and Beryl (5 months).
Phil Pugsley flew out to Uganda on Sunday 8th to support Robert’s family and the Kira Farm staff, and to attend Robert’s funeral.
Robert was unique, with an incredible commitment to see the lives of the rural poor of Uganda transformed and Amigos benefited greatly from his wisdom and passion. Robert has left a legacy that truly is greater than one man, and we would like to continue this legacy through the ‘Robert Bayita Memorial Fund’. This memorial fund will be dedicated to continuing the work that Robert was passionate about, bringing hope to young adults across Uganda. Alongside this, the fund will be used to support Robert’s family at this present time.
Life as a single mum is always hard, and we would love to be able to stand with Doreen as she raises Israel and Beryl, especially by supporting them through their education.
If you would like to donate to this fund you can do so online here or send a cheque payable to:
Amigos Worldwide, Amigos, PO Box 314, Barnstaple, Devon, EX32 2EN.
Please mark your donations for the ‘Robert Bayita Memorial Fund’.
For more information about this fund, or for alternative ways of donating, please contact Phil Pugsley, phil@amigos.org.uk 01271 377664.
Thank you for your prayers and support at this time,
Amigos UK and Amigos Uganda
*Guillain–Barré syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition of the peripheral nervous system. In Guillain-Barré syndrome the immune system (the body’s natural defence against infection and illness) attacks these nerves, causing them to become inflamed, and can ultimately affect the respiratory system.
For any active supporters out there, how about signing up for the Bupa 10,000m marathon? The race will be held on Sunday 27th May, starting at 11am. For more information please email Barry Jones barry@jennyandbarry.com or phone him on 01237 421068.
Guy and Jill Robinson and their three young sons Samuel, 10, Benjamin, 9, and Noah, 7, will be staying on Kira Farm, a training project for vulnerable young Ugandans (Feb - April 2012) follow how they get on here
Sarah Howells, a journalist from North Devon, visited Kira Farm in November 2011 to meet the students and report their stories for the North Devon Gazette. From former child soldiers to AIDS orphans, Sarah tells the stories of the Kira Farm students here.
Ruth May, who is currentley volunteering at Kira to help develop our Justice, Life Skills and KiRU (Kira into Rural Uganda) programme has set up a blog to keep us all updated on her progress. She gives us insight into some of the inspiring tales of the students and of the challeges they face. A great read! here
Sam and C
hristine Chandler (mid-Devon farmers) spent 9 weeks in Uganda helping out at Kira Farm Feb - April 2011. They let us know h ow they got on in this fantastic blog detailing day to day life on Kira, Amigos Child Sponsorship programme and life in Uganda here
Alison Berridge visited Uganda with Amigos in Oct 2011. Please click here to find out more.
Amigos is working to bring self-sustainability, dignity and hope to the young people in Uganda through investing in vocational training, educational opportunities and holistic life-skills.
